By Amy-Lee Steenkamp

There are very few hard and fast rules when it comes to planning a wedding but there might be a very important one that cannot be overlooked – wait until you buy or finalise your wedding dress before you decide on your veil.

Deciding on a veil to pair your dream dress with plays a major role in creating your overall wedding look. Traditionally they are passed down through generations, in which case you might not have a choice but it is pretty special to adorn your mother’s or grandmother’s veil.

The veil has the ability to highlight your appearance and enhance the detail on your dress.

There are tons of veil styles to choose from and the most common material used is tulle. Always consider which you would be most comfortable wearing. Comfort is key.

For a vintage inspired feel, a birdcage veil with trench netting that covers your eyes and stops right above your chin is for you. This can be enhanced with an off white or ivory coloured veil.

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The most common is the blusher veil which covers the face and usually stops on the shoulders. It can be worn alone or with a longer veil underneath.

Veils come in different lengths too. There are shoulder length ones, elbow length and fingertip length ones to choose from.

Blusher veils:

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Others styles include the Waltz veil – which is long but does not touch the floor. The chapel veil on the other hand does touch the floor. The most dramatic is the cathedral veil with a super long train ready to make a statement.

Waltz Veil:

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Chapel Veils:

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Cathedral Veils:

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A Mantilla veil ensures a soft and dainty feel to the wedding look as it is pinned to the brides hair with a comb and wrapped alongside her shoulders.

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Get creative with your veil by attaching it to a hat and just having it flow backwards. Alternatively, you can attached the veil to the new trendy pearl slide clips for a modern feel. Consider your hairstyle first as this is key for the placement of the veil.

Picture: Pixabay

Let’s face it, metallics are more than just a colour scheme for your big day. They’re bold, fun and glamorous! You can instantly liven up any piece of decor or your wedding look by adding one of these sparkly hues to the mix, meaning they’re fantastic for any part of your day. Be inspired by shades of gold, rose, silver and metal for your wedding day.

THE DRESSES

Have your bridesmaids sport sparkling ensembles in a variety of styles to suit their body types. They will feel like princesses by your side while still matching the wedding theme. And if you really feel like making a statement, drench yourself in one of these gorgeous hues for a bold and sophisticated bridal gown.

THE CAKE

Your wedding cake is where you can really let metallics shine, and they fit with beautiful florals, geometric shapes, marble and many more trends. Even just having a simple white 3-tier cake with some metallic finishes is an elegant choice.

THE DECOR

Let your reception decor flourish with an array of gold, copper and silver pieces that provide a warm yet stylish setting for your guests to indulge. Take it to the silverware and table setting and mix in some greenery for something slightly more rustic, or opt for a glamorous affair with striking pieces.

THE FLOWERS

Create a metallic effect with your wedding florals by spray-painting your chosen shades on to fake greenery and flowers and arrange them amongst your bouquet or flower arrangements. It’s an easy way to glam up your wedding decor and add a touch of sparkle.

THE STATIONERY

When it comes to wedding stationery, there can never be too much glamour! You can opt for simple touches of metallic to liven up some pastel shades, or make it the focus of your theme. Have this flow throughout your wedding stationery, from the save-the-dates right through to the table menus.

Images: Pinterest

We’re taking things to the east with some Indian bridal inspo! Feast your eyes on these gorgeously detailed outfits from some of our favourite international designers.

1. Sabyasachi Mukherjee

2. Vasansi Jaipur

3. Tarun Tahiliani

4. Manish Malhotra

Images: instagram.com